ELLIOTT WARD believes he has the right blend of defensive strength and know-how to help Coventry City get out of the Championship.

Signing at the Ricoh Arena with an excellent reputation and #1 million price tag, the 21-year-old is expected to make up a solid back-bone to Micky Adams's new-look Sky Blues.

"I'm very pleased to sign for Coventry and I can't wait to play my first game for the club," said the 6ft 1 tall defender who has joined from West Ham.

"I'll always do my best and try to do well and hopefully, along with the rest of the team, we can try and get the club back in the Premiership where it belongs. I want to defend well and play some good football and hopefully it should all come together.

"I'm tall so I like defending crosses and I like to pass the ball too.

"I'm looking forward to working with the rest of the team and I think we have to get the right blend of when we should play attractive football and when the defence should just lamp it!"

And like every new signing to date, Ward couldn't fail to be impressed by the club's new stadium.

"When I first went to see the Ricoh Arena it struck me what a great ground it is," he said.

"I think it is five years since Coventry were relegated from the Premier League but it is obvious to me that the club is asleeping giant.

"I know the club has a three-year plan and if everyone pulls in the right direction, we should get back to where we belong.

"Pre-season is always hard and I don't think any footballer likes running without the ball!

"But it is all worth it when you get to play football and I'm looking forward to our first game already.

"I haven't played a whole season in the Championship but I have obviously had experience with Plymouth and West Ham at this level.

"I know that this division is a tough one to get out of but I have full confidence that we have everything in place at Coventry and the players here who will try to do their very best for the club."